Argos is to recruit around 10,000 seasonal workers in the runup to Christmas to join the firm's existing 30,000 employees in the UK for the busy festive season.

Initial contracts are for around three months, with the potential for some jobs to become permanent at the end of the season, where vacancies exist in the 735 stores.

John Walden, managing director of Argos, said: "As we approach our busiest shopping period of the year, we need the extra support in our stores from enthusiastic colleagues to ensure that we continue to deliver brilliant customer service to the millions that shop with us at this time of year.

"We are looking for people who are customer-focused, passionate and enthusiastic to join our teams."

Last year the retailer advertised for 12,000 seasonal workers.

The announcement follows Amazon's call for 15,000 Christmas recruits this week, up 5,000 on last year.